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In the long, hot days of summer, a day at the beach is the right of every man, woman and child. No need to drive for hours if you’re in the metropolis: you can bask in the sun on some sand, only a hop, skip and a jump away. Here are our top five suggestions for summer relaxation and fun on the public beaches around Montreal.

1. Parc régional des Îles-de-Saint-Timothée

In Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, less than an hour from Montreal, this park in the Saint-Timothée Basin welcomes visitors to a fine-sand island beach in the middle of the Saint-Lawrence. The water quality is always impeccable, clear and crystalline. Check out the adjacent nature conservation area and the 5 km of shady hiking paths, and perhaps take the adventure a little further on the extensive network of bike paths. The Parc régional des Îles-de-Saint-Timothée is a destination to discover (or rediscover)!

2. Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park

On the western end of the Island of Montréal, easily accessible by public transit, the Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park beckons for a magnificent day away. Surrounded by hiking paths and wood, you’ll soon forget that you’re still in the city. It’s the perfect spot for avoiding crowds: this natural beach on Lake of Two Mountains is limited to a small number of bathers. And the sunset is an end-of-day bonus that’s worth the trip alone.

3. Saint-Zotique Beach

It’s impossible to be bored on Saint-Zotique Beach. On its wide, sandy expanse there are water games for kids, a wading pool, a dairy bar, a snack bar, palapas for protection from the sun, entertainment, volleyball and tennis courts and soccer fields, all only 45 minutes from Montréal!

4. Oka National Park

Oka Beach, ideally situated on the banks of Lake of Two Mountains, needs no introduction. Long-beloved by Quebeckers, this 7-km stretch of sand welcomes visitors there for a cooling dip, leisurely bask in the sun, or picnic in an oasis of green. For a day at the beach or a weekend of camping, Oka is the perfect family destination.

5. Pointe-Calumet Beachclub

Party people, meet up at Pointe-Calumet’s famous Beachclub, the biggest outdoor club in North America. With major artists and international stars every weekend, the Beachclub serves up a beach party with the vibe of a Caribbean island fiesta, only 45 minutes from Montréal. With a capacity of 10,000 people, it’s pure hip-shaking, sun-soaked entertainment to the electronic beat of the guest DJs.